From Sliema: Full-Day Cruise to Comino and the Blue Lagoon

Exploring Malta’s Blue Lagoon from Sliema: A Detailed Look at a Popular Day Trip

If you’re eyeing a day of sun, sea, and stunning scenery in Malta, a full-day cruise to Comino and the famed Blue Lagoon offers a tempting escape. Based on numerous reviews and tour descriptions, this trip is often praised for its beautiful waters and relaxed vibe, though it’s not without some quirks. I’ve gathered what I believe to be the key highlights and potential pitfalls so you can decide if this experience fits your Maltese itinerary.

What really makes this cruise stand out is the chance to spend eight hours immersed in the turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon—an unspoiled spot that’s hard to beat for crystal clarity and scenic beauty. The friendly crew and value for money are often mentioned as major pluses, especially considering the reasonable price of around $34 per person. I also appreciate that the cruise offers ample time for swimming and snorkeling, with equipment available for rental or bringing your own.

However, some travelers note that the boat can be quite crowded, especially on peak days, and that the overall experience depends on managing expectations about timing and comfort. The trip’s simplicity—focused mainly on beach and water activities—means it’s ideal for those seeking a relaxed, straightforward day at the sea rather than a packed sightseeing tour. One thing to keep in mind is that from May 2025 onward, visitors will need a free online ticket to walk on Comino, which adds a step but also helps manage visitor numbers.

Key points / Takeaways

• Crucial timing: The cruise departs at 10:30 AM from Sliema and returns at 6:30 PM, giving you roughly 6 hours of free time at the lagoon.
• Snorkeling gear: Available for rent or you can bring your own; a small fee applies.
• Comfort and amenities: The boat has air conditioning, snacks, bar, and toilets, making it comfortable for a long day at sea.
• Crowd factor: The Blue Lagoon gets busy, so arriving early or paying extra for the upper deck in the sunshine might improve your experience.
• Guided commentary: Knowledgeable guides provide commentary, enhancing your understanding of the sights.
• Booking flexibility: You can cancel up to 24 hours before with a full refund, and reserve now with pay later options.
• Special note: As of May 2025, a free online ticket is required to walk on Comino, so plan to get that in advance.
• Review insights: Many travelers report that the crew is friendly and that the views are breathtaking, with some noting that the trip is worth the price. The reviews also reveal some dissatisfaction with waiting times or crowded boats, so plan accordingly.

A Complete Breakdown of the Full-Day Cruise Experience

Starting Point and Timing—Leaving Sliema for the Blue Lagoon

Your adventure begins at the Sliema ferry terminal, located opposite McDonald’s—an easy spot to find. The boat leaves promptly at 10:30 AM, so arriving by 10:00 AM ensures you won’t miss the departure. The first impression matters: a large, comfortable boat awaits, often capable of accommodating many passengers, which means you might share the space with fellow travelers, some of whom rave about the “big boat” with sunbeds on the top deck.

The return journey is scheduled for 6:30 PM, giving you almost eight hours of total cruise time, but don’t expect to spend all that time lounging. The majority of your daylight will likely be spent at the lagoon, with travel time in between.

The Journey to Comino—What to Expect

The cruise crosses the open waters of the Mediterranean, offering scenic views of Malta’s coastline. Many reviews mention the friendly staff and informative commentary that explain where you are, what you’re seeing, and highlight local points of interest. To some, the trip itself is just as enjoyable as the destination, with passengers relaxing on deck or enjoying drinks from the onboard bar.

Travel time to the Blue Lagoon can vary, and some reviews note that the journey may be longer due to multiple stops or combining different tours. For instance, one reviewer pointed out that the boat stopped in St. Paul’s Bay and even dropped off some passengers in Gozo before reaching Comino, meaning the actual time at the lagoon could be shorter than expected—around 3 hours in some cases.

The Blue Lagoon—A Natural Marvel

Once you arrive, the Blue Lagoon’s allure becomes immediately apparent. Its crystal-clear waters and white sandy bottom are picture-perfect. Many travelers describe it as “beautiful” or “unforgettable,” with the water so transparent that snorkeling becomes almost addictive.

Snorkeling is a major highlight; you can rent equipment for a small fee or bring your own, which I recommend if you want to maximize your underwater experience. The marine life is abundant, making it a fantastic spot for both beginner and seasoned snorkelers. The lagoon’s shallow waters and calm conditions make it ideal for families or anyone looking for gentle swimming.

Facilities and Comfort on the Boat

The boat is equipped with air conditioning, toilets, and a bar serving drinks and snacks. This is a significant plus because after a few hours in the sun, you might appreciate some cool relief or a cold drink. Some reviews mention paying extra for upgraded seating—such as sitting on the top deck—which can be worth it if you want the best sunshine.

The onboard commentary provides context and adds to the overall enjoyment, especially if you’re curious about local sights or the history of the area. Crew members are generally described as friendly and helpful, making the experience more pleasant.

Crowds, Wait Times, and Managing Expectations

While the trip is affordable and offers plenty of swimming time, the crowd level can be intense during peak season. Several reviews mention that the lagoon can feel very busy, which might detract from the serenity many seek in such a pristine location. Arriving early or paying for a premium seat on the top deck can improve your experience.

A recurring theme in reviews is the waiting time—some travelers waited over an hour for the trip to start or had to endure long boat rides. One person almost missed their return boat because they were unclear about pickup arrangements, highlighting the importance of paying attention to instructions and timing.

The New Ticketing System and Entry to Comino

Starting in May 2025, visitors will need to reserve a free online ticket to walk onto Comino. This new system helps manage visitor flow and is an additional step to include in your planning. You’ll receive a QR code which must be scanned on arrival; failure to do so means you cannot set foot on the island, though swimming nearby remains an option.

Tip: During booking, select the 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM slot, as advised, to ensure smooth entry.

Who Will Love This Experience

This cruise is best suited for those who enjoy relaxed beach days, water activities, and scenic boat rides. It’s particularly appealing if you’re looking for value for money, given the price point and the hours of entertainment in the water. It works well for families, solo travelers, or groups who appreciate a straightforward, no-fuss day trip.

However, if you’re sensitive about crowds or want a more exclusive experience, consider arriving early, paying for a top deck seat, or exploring other tours with smaller groups.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day cruise to Comino and the Blue Lagoon offers a balanced mix of comfort, natural beauty, and affordability. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want ample time to swim and snorkel in one of the Mediterranean’s most captivating locations without breaking the bank. The friendly crew, good facilities, and scenic journey make it a very practical outing, especially if you’re staying in Sliema or nearby.

If your goal is to enjoy Malta’s waters with a relaxed, straightforward trip and don’t mind some crowds, this tour is a solid pick. It’s especially suitable for first-timers wanting to see the Blue Lagoon with minimal fuss, or for those on a budget looking to pack a lot into a single day.

However, if you prefer a more intimate or less crowded experience, you might want to look into smaller tours or alternative options that focus on fewer guests or private trips. Just be prepared for the possibility of busy spots and the need to manage your time carefully.

In the end, this cruise reveals why so many travelers fall for Malta’s iconic Blue Lagoon—its clear waters, stunning scenery, and the simple pleasure of floating in the Mediterranean sun.

FAQs

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Most reviews and the general setup suggest it’s family-friendly, especially because of the shallow, calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Just keep an eye on timing and possible crowds.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring your swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. You might also want to bring your own snorkeling gear if you prefer not to rent, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.

How long do we stay at the Blue Lagoon?
Typically around 3 hours, although this can vary if the boat makes multiple stops or if there are delays. It’s enough time to swim, snorkel, and take photos.

Can I get food and drinks onboard?
Yes, the boat has a bar and snack facilities, but food and beverages are not included in the ticket price. You can purchase drinks and snacks during the trip.

Is there a guide or commentary during the cruise?
Yes, the cruise provides detailed commentary in English, helping you understand the sights along the way.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund.

Are there any accessibility restrictions?
The experience is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of the boat and island access requirements.

How do I book and what is the cost?
Booking is straightforward on platforms like GetYourGuide, with a typical price of around $34 per person. You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation options.

What should I expect in terms of crowd size?
During busy times, the lagoon can be quite crowded, which some reviews say can make the experience less tranquil. Arriving early or choosing a premium seat can help.

To sum it up, this cruise offers a relaxed, affordable way to enjoy the stunning Blue Lagoon. It’s a fit for travelers craving plenty of water time, good value, and scenic views, provided you’re comfortable with some crowds and a busy schedule. For a straightforward, scenic day at Malta’s most famous water spot, it’s hard to beat this experience.